Attackers targeted a military installation in northwestern Pakistan with dual suicide bombings that breached the perimeter wall, sparking a coordinated assault on the compound. The violence resulted in the deaths of at least nine individuals, accompanied by injuries to 25 more, as reported by both officials and a regional medical facility. The Pakistani Taliban-affiliated group, Jaish Al-Fursan, asserted responsibility for the strike at Bannu, situated in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, claiming that numerous Pakistani security personnel were killed in the incident.
Following the initial explosions, gunfire persisted, with dense gray smoke billowing into the sky, as described by police officer Zahid Khan. Among those deceased were four children, as confirmed by hospital authorities, with victims residing in close proximity to the explosion sites.
The attack unfolded shortly after sunset during the holy month of Ramadan, coinciding with the time when Muslims break their fast. Muhammad Noman, a spokesperson for Bannu District Hospital, revealed that the blasts resulted in significant structural damage, toppling roofs and walls, which contributed to the casualties.
According to a security official, the assailants detonated their explosive vests near the installation’s boundary, attempting to penetrate the cantonment area. “After breaching the wall, five to six more attackers attempted entry but were neutralized. The operation in the area continues,” the official shared, requesting anonymity.
This assault represents the third militant attack in Pakistan since Ramadan commenced. Jaish Al-Fursan, in its claim of responsibility, described the attack as being executed with explosive-laden vehicles.
Such attacks are not novel to the region. In a significant strike last November, a suicide car bomb claimed the lives of 12 soldiers and injured several at a security post in Bannu. Additionally, in July, another explosive-laden vehicle detonated, while gunmen launched an offensive near the military facility’s outer wall.
